The Natural Selection 2 Website announces that preorders are now underway on Steam, and that Unknown Worlds' action/strategy sequel is to be released next month, though they have not nailed down the exact date yet (thanks Joao). They outline the choice between the Standard and Deluxe editions, though between now and the game's release the only version being sold is the Deluxe edition at the Standard edition price. They have been accepting preorders on their website for some time now, and explain that anyone who took advantage of this prior to today will be getting a free upgrade to the Deluxe edition as well as a second copy of the Standard edition to give to a friend. Here's what the Deluxe edition includes besides the game itself:

ASeven wrote on Sep 5, 2012, 16:08:One of those rare true PC games through and through. Anyone who loves class-based MP games will love this game instantly. Nice to see the pre-order climbing the Steam charts as well.

How do you know this? I played NS1 and it was awesome, but that was *10 years ago* and it was a mod. This is a full on game and I've seen several sequels completely flop.

I'm genuinely asking how you know ppl will love this - have you played the beta or something?

Yes, been playing the alpha/beta for a couple of years now. It is a great, awesome game with a strong community already. It's the kind of game you don't see anymore, something quite innovative.